Pochettino's USMNT Depth Chart: Predicting The 2026 World Cup Squad

Michael

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Post on Jun 16, 2025

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Pochettino's USMNT Depth Chart: Predicting the 2026 World Cup Squad

The appointment of Mauricio Pochettino as the new USMNT head coach has injected a surge of excitement into American soccer. With the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, just around the corner, all eyes are on Pochettino to build a squad capable of making a deep run. But what will his starting XI look like? And who will make the cut for the final roster? Let's dive into a potential depth chart, predicting the players who could be representing the Stars and Stripes in three years’ time.

Goalkeepers:

The goalkeeper position boasts some serious talent. While Matt Turner (Arsenal) currently holds the number one spot, his position isn't entirely secure. Young guns like Gabriel Slonina (Chelsea) and Djordje Mihailovic (Montreal Impact) are knocking on the door, pushing for minutes and aiming to prove their capabilities at the highest level. Expect fierce competition for the starting role.

• Starter: Matt Turner
• Backup: Ethan Horvath
• Third Choice: Gabriel Slonina

Defenders:

The defensive line is arguably the strongest area of the USMNT. The experienced Miles Robinson (Atlanta United) provides leadership and solidity, while the versatile Antonee Robinson (Fulham) offers attacking prowess from left-back. The emergence of young talents like Chris Richards (Crystal Palace) and Cameron Carter-Vickers (Celtic) adds further depth. Competition for places will be intense.

• Right-Back: Sergiño Dest (AC Milan) / Joe Scally (Borussia Mönchengladbach)
• Center-Backs: Miles Robinson, Tim Ream (Fulham), Cameron Carter-Vickers, John Brooks
• Left-Back: Antonee Robinson / Sam Vines (Royal Antwerp)

Midfielders:

The midfield is where Pochettino will have to make some tough decisions. The established stars like Weston McKennie (Juventus) and Tyler Adams (Leeds United) are likely locks, but their performances will dictate their roles. The likes of Yunus Musah (Valencia) and Giovanni Reyna (Borussia Dortmund) offer creative flair and attacking threat, potentially vying for central attacking midfield positions. The midfield battle will be a key factor in determining the team's success.

• Defensive Midfielders: Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie
• Central Midfielders: Yunus Musah, Giovanni Reyna, Luca de la Torre (Celta Vigo)
• Attacking Midfield: Cristian Roldan (Seattle Sounders), Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United)

Forwards:

The forward line holds significant potential. The prolific Christian Pulisic (Chelsea) is almost guaranteed a place, but the supporting cast is still developing. Players like Ricardo Pepi (FC Augsburg), Jesús Ferreira (FC Dallas), and Timothy Weah (Lille) will be fighting for spots, showcasing their goal-scoring abilities and pressing capabilities. This competition is crucial for a dynamic attack.

• Starters: Christian Pulisic, Jesús Ferreira
• Backups: Ricardo Pepi, Timothy Weah, Jordan Morris (Seattle Sounders)

The Pochettino Factor:

Pochettino’s tactical approach will be crucial in shaping this squad. His preference for high pressing and possession-based football might necessitate specific player selections. Expect players who excel in these areas to rise to prominence under his leadership. The next three years will be critical in seeing how he develops and molds this talented group.

Conclusion:

Predicting a World Cup squad three years in advance is inherently speculative. Form, injuries, and emergent talent will all play a part. However, this potential depth chart highlights the depth and quality within the USMNT. With Pochettino at the helm and the talent pool available, the future of American soccer looks bright. The 2026 World Cup on home soil presents a unique opportunity – and the pressure is on to deliver. Are you excited for the future of the USMNT? Let us know in the comments below!